A Musical Journey Along the Lincoln Highway

When she first conceived An American Songline, Cece wanted to follow a historic route that would let her travel the entire country. She chose the Lincoln Highway, the first paved road that took Americans from New York City to San Francisco, passing through 14 states in total. With a program of 20 songs ranging from opera to show tunes, Cece traveled from one end of the highway to the other, giving concerts in each state along the route — 30 performances in all. She took part in the centennial celebration for the highway in Kearney, Nebraska; rode in a parade in Jefferson, Iowa; and gave the first-ever scheduled concert at the annual Dam Jam in Rockport, Utah, among many other highlights.

Cece recounted her travels in a book and also recorded an album of music from her program, along with several new pieces inspired by the journey.